In January, 21 states increased their minimum wage; however, the highest minimum wage is not found in California or New York.

In January, 21 states increased their minimum wage; however, the highest minimum wage is not found in California or New York.
In January, 21 states increased their minimum wage; however, the highest minimum wage is not found in California or New York.

Since 2009, the federal minimum wage has remained at $7.25 per hour, but states across the U.S. have been increasing their own minimum wages to improve the living standards of their residents.

On January 1, many states automatically increase their minimum wage, including Arizona, Virginia, Connecticut, and Minnesota. In contrast, specific ballot measures have legislated the increases in states like Florida and Missouri. Currently, Washington state has the highest minimum wage.

The minimum wage increased in 21 states on Jan. 1. Here are the updated minimum wage amounts for those states.

Alaska: $11.91

Arizona: $14.70

California: $16.50

Colorado: $14.81

Connecticut: $16.35

Delaware: $15

Illinois: $15

Maine: $14.65

Michigan: $10.56

Minnesota: $11.13

Missouri: $13.75

Montana: $10.55

Nebraska: $13.50

New Jersey: $15.49

New York: $15.50 to $16.50 (depending on region)

Ohio: $10.70

Rhode Island: $15

South Dakota: $11.50

Vermont: $14.01

Virginia: $12.41

Washington: $16.66

Nearly 10 million U.S. workers received a pay increase, while over 40 cities and regions boosted their minimum wage, including Flagstaff, Arizona, with a minimum wage of $17.85 and Seattle with a minimum wage of $20.76.

Oregon and Florida will increase their minimum wages in July and September, respectively, based on changes in the Consumer Price Index.

On July 1, Washington, D.C. will increase its minimum wage from $17.50 to a higher amount.

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